I admired my aunt, a first-grade teacher. When I was young, I used to help her in her classroom, and during that time I observed her in action. I was continuously amazed when I watched her teach those little ones whose eyes were wide with wonder and excitement. I witnessed the joy of teaching through my aunt’s eyes, and it looked so rewarding. That was the first time I thought about going into education.

What most excites you about working at Norfolk Academy?

I am most excited about developing the new relationships with the Norfolk Academy community. Every person I have met has been warm and inviting. I can’t wait to get to know the students!

Norfolk Academy is unique because…

...the mission is to teach the child first and the student second. I believe wholeheartedly the key to educating our children is through building strong relationships based on trust. Without trust there is nothing. With the focus on honor and integrity, NA provides the foundation that enables our children to grow into the best version of themselves and to become contributing members of society.

Last book read:

Radium Girls by Kate Moore. It’s an amazing true story about young women of the World War I era who fought the powers of a scandalous big-business after falling mysteriously ill from overexposure to radiation, an unknown force at that time.

What do you like to do in your own time/when you’re not working?

I love spending time in the mountains with my family, friends, and Henry, my Persian cat. Enjoying a home-cooked meal, playing cards, and then stargazing into the dark nighttime sky with those I love can't be beat!

Favorite food

DiCarlo’s Pizza: It’s the pizza I grew up enjoying in my hometown of Weirton, WV.

A movie is being made about your life. Who would they cast to play you?

Mary Tyler Moore

Fun fact your students might find surprising:

Having been born and raised twenty minutes from Pittsburgh, I’m a Pittsburgh sports fanatic!